Paul Karason gained worldwide notoriety for his blue-tinted skin, caused by a condition called argyria. He believed that consuming colloidal silver, a dietary supplement made of tiny particles of silver, had health benefits and drank it for over a decade. However, this practice ultimately resulted in his unique and permanent blue-gray skin color.
Colloidal silver has been used for centuries as a natural antibiotic, and some proponents claim that it can boost the immune system and prevent or treat various health issues. However, the scientific evidence to support these claims is scarce, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate colloidal silver as a drug or dietary supplement.
Paul Karason began taking colloidal silver in the late 1990s after he developed pneumonia and was seeking a natural remedy. He initially used it as a nasal spray, and later began ingesting it regularly, often drinking up to ten ounces of colloidal silver a day. Over time, the silver particles accumulated in his skin and other organs, causing argyria, a rare and irreversible condition that causes a blue-gray discoloration.
The blue hue of Karason’s skin was particularly striking because it was so intense and widespread. His skin tone was described as “smurf-like,” and he was often compared to a character from the movie “Avatar.” In addition to his skin, the whites of his eyes, fingernails, and gums also turned blue.
Karason’s blue skin drew international attention, and he was featured in numerous news outlets and TV shows. While he initially embraced the attention and hoped to use it to raise awareness about colloidal silver, he later expressed regret and concern about the potential harm he had caused others by promoting the supplement.
In an interview with ABC News in 2009, Karason said, “I feel like a laboratory rat because I don’t know what’s going to happen next.” He also warned others not to follow in his footsteps, saying, “I would like the word to get out to not take colloidal silver by mouth.”
Karason’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unregulated dietary supplements and the importance of seeking medical advice before consuming any such products. The FDA has issued warnings about the use of colloidal silver, and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has stated that there is no scientific evidence to support the use of colloidal silver as a health supplement.
In conclusion, Paul Karason’s blue skin is a reminder of the risks associated with unproven and unregulated dietary supplements. While colloidal silver may have some benefits, there is no evidence to support its widespread use, and excessive consumption can lead to serious health problems. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or treatment, and to be wary of unverified health claims.
